IP37 vs IP43
Head-to-head comparison of two IEC 60529 ingress protection ratings.
IP37 and IP43 are both IEC 60529 ingress protection codes, but they differ in solid-object protection (level 3 vs 4) and liquid protection (level 7 vs 3). IP37 is rated for > 2.5 mm — tool / wire and temporary immersion (up to 1 m), while IP43 provides > 1 mm — small wires and spraying water (up to 60°).
Specified under IEC 60529, IP37 denotes protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm and protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water. Ingress of water in quantities causing harmful effects shall not be possible.. It is an IEC 60529 ingress protection code combining first-digit (solid) level 3 with second-digit (liquid) level 7.
IP43 protects against 1 mm solid objects and spraying water up to 60° from vertical. A practical rating for sheltered equipment subject to light angled spray, such as covered outdoor fixtures.
Detailed comparison
The stronger rating on each row is highlighted in emerald.
Solid protection (first digit)
IP37
3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43
4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
Liquid protection (second digit)
IP37
7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP43
3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
Dust-tight
IP37
No
IP43
No
Water-jet resistant
IP37
Yes
IP43
No
Submersible
IP37
Yes
IP43
No
Outdoor suitable
IP37
Yes
IP43
No
The exact difference (IP37 vs IP43)
Solid protection
IP37
Level 3 — > 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire
IP43
Level 4 — > 1 mm — Small Wires
IP37 provides "> 2.5 mm — Tool / Wire" (level 3), while IP43 provides "> 1 mm — Small Wires" (level 4). IP43 is 1 level higher.
Liquid protection
IP37
Level 7 — Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)
IP43
Level 3 — Spraying Water (up to 60°)
IP37 handles Hydrostatic ~10 kPa at 1 m (Temporary Immersion (up to 1 m)), while IP43 handles 80 kPa (tube) / 50 kPa (nozzle) (Spraying Water (up to 60°)). IP37 provides 4 levels more liquid protection.
NEMA equivalents
No direct NEMA equivalent.
No direct NEMA equivalent.
Recommendation
IP37 offers higher overall protection than IP43. Choose IP37 for harsher environments; IP43 may suffice for milder conditions and can be more cost-effective.